Nuuausala released to join Canberra

Share on social media

Roosters back-rower Frank-Paul Nuuausala has been granted an immediate release from the final year of his contract to join the Canberra Raiders on a three-year deal.

Roosters coach Trent Robinson thanked Nuuausala for his passion and commitment to the side, adding he would be missed.

"It can never be underestimated the important contribution Frank has made to the Roosters in his time here," Robinson said.

"The type of player who prefers to let his actions do the talking on the footy field, it's been an honour to watch Frank develop as a leader among our forwards over the past few years.

"Frankie's a good man who we will miss greatly at the Roosters, and he'll always have many friends here. The Raiders are lucky to have him and we wish Frank every success at his new club."

The 27-year-old Nuuausala has played all of his 153 NRL games to date at the Bondi club since making his debut there in 2007, and also played 15 Tests for New Zealand.

Sydney Roosters COO Football, Brian Canavan, said it had not been an easy decision to release Nuuausala. "However, we do so with the view that it is in Frank-Paul's best interests to secure his long-term future," Canavan said.

"A passionate clubman, popular among his teammates and all staff, the Roosters are certainly far better for the time Frank has spent at the Club and I know I speak on behalf of everyone associated with the Roosters in wishing him all the very best," he added.

In a statement, the Raiders noted Nuuausala can play lock, second row or prop, and said he will join pre-season training next week in a bid to push his way into the starting 17 for Round 1, 2015.

Raiders coach Ricky Stuart said the signing of Nu'uausala was fantastic for the club and they looked forward to him joining the team for training next weekend.

"Frank-Paul is a wonderful player and we're looking forward to him joining us and becoming part of the Raiders family," Stuart said.

Nu'uausala thanked the Roosters for their support in his career and said he can't wait to join Canberra.

"I will always be grateful for the opportunity the Roosters gave me when I came over from New Zealand and for all the friendships and memories I have made at the club, with the highlight definitely being the 2013 Premiership. I would like to thank everyone who has helped me along the way," Nu'uausala said.

"I'm excited to be joining the Raiders and am looking forward to meeting the coaching staff and all my new teammates, and getting straight into training."